Downtown Charleston’s Top Hidden Gems

Charleston has an endless list of different restaurants and shops–some very famous, and others not so much. It can be difficult, as a newer resident or visitor, to select or stumble upon some of the lesser-known places; however, Charleston cannot be experienced fully and authentically without its secret spots. We have compiled a list of the most worthy, locals-approved hidden gems in Downtown Charleston to check out.

 

 

1. Baker's Bar: Baker's Bar is a delightful speakeasy-type pizza joint in the basement of One Broad. It is located in the French Quarter, surrounded by ample, infamous restaurants; however, Baker’s Bar does not need the bold advertisements or even the sign to attract Charleston pizza-lovers. 
2. Queen St. Grocery: Queen Street Grocery is a petit sandwich shop at the heart of queen street, perfect for a quick bite to eat. Queen Street Grocery offers delectable sweet and savory breakfast and lunch options such as crepes, omelets, smoothies, and sandwiches. 
3. Harken Cafe: The Harken Cafe offers breakfast and lunch options but is best known for its scrumptious pastries and stunning outdoor seating. Harken cafe is a unique coffee shop because it does not allow excessive laptop use, so it is an engaging and energetic spot that welcomes conversation. 
4. Hampton Park: Once people locate Hampton Park for the first time, they typically become loyal park goers. It features outdoor amenities that are not particularly common in the downtown area–such as fountains, trails, rich vegetation, and alluring flowers.
5. Halo: Halo is a quaint sandwich shop on Ashely Ave. that has upstairs porch seating and an endless sandwich menu. It’s vegetarian friendly and is the perfect takeout spot to hit before a picnic or beach day. 
6. R Kitchen: You could live in Charleston for years passing this restaurant on a regular basis and still miss it. It is a top-notch chefs-table restaurant that offers a different menu every night catered to the customer’s preferences. 
7. Malagon: Malagon is a new tapas lounge at the corner of Spring and King Street. Do not let its small size and newness fool you–Malagon is an upscale restaurant with excellent Spanish wine and cuisine–perfect for happy hour or a date night. 
8. Elliotborough Mini Bar: Elliotborough Mini Bar is not exactly in the center of Charleston’s nightlife scene. Its a little wine bar that offers open mic night and live music throughout the week, while also providing a homey, friendly atmosphere. 
9. The Citrus Club: The Citrus Club features the highest rooftop view in Charleston on the eighth floor of the Dewberry Hotel. It’s a lively yet elegant spot for drinks, snacks, and ambiance.
10. Bin 152: Bin 152 is situated in lower King Street and can be easily missed because of its arbitrary location; however, it is the oldest winebar in Charleston! Bin 152 has a phenomenal wine list along with charcuterie selections that offer 40 different cheeses.